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Combining hydrothermal synthesis, electrodeposition with soaking process, we synthesized coaxial nanowire arrays consisting of Co3O4 nanowire as the core, polypyrrole (PPy) as the inner shell and MnO2 outer layer as the exodermis. The key to fabricate one-dimensional hierarchical architecture, Co3O4@PPy@MnO2 "core-shell-shell" nanowires, was to introduce a PPy intermediate layer on the surface of Co3O4 nanowire, which could enhance the conductivity of nanowire arrays and act as a reactive template to induce a coating of amorphous MnO2. The device based on the ternary composite Co3O4@PPy@MnO2 nanowire arrays exhibited prominent electrochemical performance with a high energy density of 34.3 Wh kg-1 at a power density of 80.0 W kg-1 and a remarkable long-term cycling stability. In addition, the performance of as-assembled asymmetrical supercapacitor was demonstrated using a DC motor. The results imply that ternary composite based electrode materials have enormous potential for energy storage devices and systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are multiple isoforms of p90 ribosomal S6 kinase (RSK), which regulate diverse cellular functions such as cell growth, proliferation, maturation, and motility. However, the relationship between the structures and functions of RSK isoforms remains undetermined. Artemia is a useful model in which to study cell cycle arrest because these animals undergo prolonged diapauses, a state of obligate dormancy. A novel RSK isoform was identified in Artemia, which was termed Ar-Rsk2. This isoform was compared with an RSK isoform that we previously identified in Artemia, termed Ar-Rsk1. Ar-Rsk2 has an ERK-docking motif, whereas Ar-Rsk1 does not. Western blot analysis revealed that Ar-Rsk1 was activated by phosphorylation, which blocked meiosis in oocytes. Knockdown of Ar-Rsk1 reduced the level of phosphorylated cdc2 and thereby suppressed cytostatic factor activity. This indicates that Ar-Rsk1 regulates the cytostatic factor in meiosis. Expression of Ar-Rsk2 was down-regulated in Artemia cysts in which mitosis was arrested. Knockdown of Ar-Rsk2 resulted in decreased levels of cyclinD3and phosphorylated histone H3, and the production of pseudo-diapause cysts. This indicates that Ar-Rsk2 regulates mitotic arrest.PLKandERKRNAi showed that Ar-Rsk2, but not Ar-Rsk1, could be activated by PLK-ERK in Artemia. This is the first study to report that RSKi soforms with and without an ERK docking motif regulate mitosis and meiosis, respectively. This study provides insight into the relationship between the structures and functions of RSK isoforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this retrospective study was to investigate the incidence and clinical implications of multinucleation in blastomeres biopsied from cleavage-stage embryos obtained from patients undergoing preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) for aneuploidies or preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) for translocations or single-gene defects (SGD). A total of 3515 embryos were obtained from 306 couples in 380 PGD or PGS cycles. Incidence of multinucleation, chromosomal complement in multinucleated (MN) and sibling embryos and the characteristics of MN embryos resulting in healthy births were investigated. Of all cycles, 41.3% involved at least one MN embryo. There were more uniformly diploid than uniformly haploid nuclei (22.0% versus 7.9%, P < 0.01). The most common form of abnormality was chaotic chromosomal complement (39.9%, 147/368). Transfer of embryos that had MN blastomeres free of the genetic abnormalities tested resulted in three healthy deliveries. It is concluded that, although the majority of MN blastomeres are chromosomaUy abnormal, healthy births are possible after transfer of embryos containing these blastomeres subjected to genetic analysis. As far as is known, this is the first report of healthy births after transfer of embryos with MN blastomeres tested for translocations or SGD in PGD cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: PRKAG2 gene encodes the y2 regulatory subunit of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) that acts as a sensor of cellular energy status, and its germline mutations are responsible for PRKAG2 cardiac syndrome (PCS). The majority of missense mutations of cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS) domains found in PCS impair the binding activity of PRKAG2 to adenosine derivatives, and therefore lead to PRKAG2 function impairment and AMPK activity alteration, resulting in a familial syndrome of ventricular preexcitation, conduction defects, and cardiac hypertrophy. However, it is unclear about the PRKAG2 mutation in the non-CBS domain. Here, a Chinese family exhibiting the cardiac syndrome associated with a novel heterozygous PRKAG2 mutation (Gly100Ser) mapped to exon 3 encoding a non-CBS domain is described and the function of this novel mutation was investigated in vitro. Methods: The PRKAG2 G100S and R302Q mutations were constructed by a two-step polymerase chain reaction and then transfected into CCL13 cells by lentivirus vectors. Wild-type PRKAG2 gene transfection was used as a negative control. PRKAG2 expression was determined by Western blot. Immunofluorescence was used to localize the intracellular PRKAG2 proteins. MTT assay was performed to explore the effect of mutations on cell proliferation. Periodic acid-Schiff staining was used for detecting glycogen accumulation. AMPK concentration was measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: Our results showed neither intracellular localization of PRKAG2 nor cell growth was altered. In contrast, PRKAG2 protein expression levels were significantly reduced by this mutation. Furthermore, PRKAG2-mediated activity of AMPK was attenuated, resulting in glycogen metabolism dysregulation. These findings revealed that non-CBS domains of PRKAG2 were essential to the regulation of AMPK activity, similar to CBS. Conclusions: Our study ascribes a crucial regulatory role to the novel PRKAG2 G100S mutation, and reiterates that PCS occurs as a consequence of AMPK signaling abnormality caused by PRKAG2 gene mutations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on a study conducted by the authors to examine the strains of zoonosis Brucella suis through molecular typing. It mentions the collection of the sample of B. suis from China which were used in pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) fingerprinting and multiple-locus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis (MLVA) to understand their molecular characteristics. It further reveals the results where the PFGE analysis showed genetic relatedness among the Brucella species.

Abstract: High specific surface area (SSA ∼2000m2/g) porous KOH-activated microwave exfoliated graphite oxide (‘a-MEGO’) electrodes have been tested in a eutectic mixture of ionic liquids (1:1 by weight or molar ratio N-methyl-N-propylpiperidinium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (PIP13-FSI) and N-butyl-N-methylpyrrolidinium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (PYR14-FSI)) as electrolyte for supercapacitor applications. By optimizing the carbon/electrolyte system, outstanding capacitive performance has been achieved with high capacitance (up to 180F/g) and wide electrochemical window (up to 3.5V) over a wide temperature range from −50°C to 80°C. This is the first demonstration of a carbon–ionic liquid system capable of delivering capacitance in excess of 100F/g below room temperature. The excellent electrochemical response of the proposed couple shows that optimization of the carbon/electrolyte interface is of great importance for improving capacitive energy storage. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Dietary selenium (Se) deficiency causes muscular dystrophy in various species, but the molecular mechanism remains unclear. Our objectives were to investigate: 7) if dietary Se deficiency induced different amounts of oxidative stress, lipic peroxidation, and cell apoptosis in 3 skeletal muscles; and 2) if the distribution and expression of 4 endoplasmic reticulum (ER) resident selenoprotein genes (Sepn1, Selk, Sels, and Selt) were related to oxidative damages in these muscles. Two groups of day-old layer chicks (n = 60/group) were fed a corn-soy basal diet (33 µg Se/kg; produced in the Se-deficient area of Heilongjiang, China) or the diet supplemented with Se (as sodium selenite) at 0.15 mg/kg for 55 d. Dietary Se deficiency resulted in accelerated (P < 0.05) cell apoptosis that was associated with decreased glutathione peroxidase activity and elevated lipid peroxidation in these muscles. All these responses were stronger in the pectoral muscle than in the thigh and wing muscles (P < 0.05). Relative distribution of the 4 ER resident selenoprotein gene mRNA amounts and their responses to dietary Se deficiency were consistent with the resultant oxidative stress and cell apoptosis in the 3 muscles. Expression of Sepn1, Sels. and Selt in these muscles was correlated with (r > 0.72; P< 0.05) that of Sepsecs encoding a key enzyme for biosynthesis of selenocysteine (selenocysteinyl-tRNA synthase). In conclusion, the pectoral muscle demonstrated unique expression patterns of the ER resident selenoprotein genes and GPx activity, along with elevated susceptibility to oxidative cell death, compared with the other skeletal muscles. These features might help explain why it is a primary target of Se deficiency diseases in chicks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Based on the statistical analyses of the attacked targets, bombing places, approximate time periods and attack modes as reported clearly in 191 Iraq bombing cases, the main factors constituting Iraq bombing risks shall include the attractiveness, exposure frequency and vulnerability of attacked targets. Therefore, Chinese enterprises can prevent from bombing risks by intensifying the approval procedures for employees’ travels and the management of travel safety to ensure the smoothly operation in Iraq and other foreign countries that have high security risks. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are environmental and tobacco carcinogens. Human aldo-keto reductases catalyze the metabolic activation of proximate carcinogenic PAH transdihydrodiols to yield electrophilic and redox-active o-quinones. Benzo[a]pyrene-7,8-dione a representative PAH o-quinone is reduced back to the corresponding catechol to generate a futile redox-cycle. We investigated whether sulfonation of PAH catechols by human sulfotransferases (SULT) could intercept the catechol in human lung cells. RT-PCR identified SULT1A1, -1A3, and -1E1 as the isozymes expressed in four human lung cell lines. The corresponding recombinant SULTs were examined for their substrate specificity. Benzo[a]pyrene-7,8-dione was reduced to benzo[a]pyrene-7,8-catechol by dithiothreitol under anaerobic conditions and then further sulfonated by the SULTs in the presence of 3_-[35S]phosphoadenosine 5_-phosphosulfate as the sulfonate group donor. The human SULTs catalyzed the sulfonation of benzo[a]pyrene-7,8-catechol and generated two isomeric benzo[a]pyrene-7,8-catechol O-monosulfate products that were identified by reversed phase HPLC and by LCMS/ MS. The various SULT isoforms produced the two isomers in different proportions. Two-dimensional 1H and 13C NMR assigned the two regioisomers of benzo[a]pyrene-7,8-catechol monosulfate as 8-hydroxy-benzo[a]pyrene-7-O-sulfate (M1) and 7-hydroxy-benzo[a]pyrene-8-O-sulfate (M2), respectively. The kinetic profiles of three SULTs were different. SULT1A1 gave the highest catalytic efficiency (kcat/Km) and yielded a single isomeric product corresponding to M1. By contrast, SULT1E1 showed distinct substrate inhibition and formed both M1 and M2. Based on expression levels, catalytic efficiency, and the fact that the lung cells only produce M1, it is concluded that the major isoform that can intercept benzo[a]pyrene-7,8-catechol is SULT1A1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a kind of poisonous and explosive gas which does harm to people and safety production. A infrared Carbon Monoxide monitoring system based on Least Squares Support Vector Machine is illustrated. Detected principle of infrared Carbon Monoxide is introduced. The mathematical model of infrared Carbon Monoxide based on Least Squares Support Vector Machine was built to dispel the influence of environment such as temperature and humidity. The hardware of the monitoring system is also introduced. The experimental results show that the infrared Carbon Monoxide monitoring system works well with a high precision and satisfies the demands of people. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) are combined to investigate the microstructure and chemical composition of the surface layer in Cu(In, Ga)Se2 (CIGS) thin films deposited using a three-stage co-evaporation process. According to the GIXRD and micro-region electron diffraction analyses, ordered defect chalcopyrite (ODC) structure does not exist in the surface layer and the surface and the bulk region of the CIGS film have the similar crystal structure. However, the results from the EDX data show that the compositional ratios of the Cu/(In+Ga) (Cu/III) have a gradient distribution across the whole surface layer. The surface layer shows a Cu-poor compositional characteristics and the Cu content increases gradually from the surface to the bulk of the material. The compositional depth profiles determined by XPS agree very well with the results of the EDX measurements. The thickness of the surface layer has been determined to be about 50–100nm in consistence with that estimated from the compositional ratio of Cu/III. High density dislocations have been observed in the surface region of these samples by high resolution TEM analyses. Our results suggest that different compositions would induce different point defects in the surface layer. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Genome-wide association study (GWAS) has identified genetic variants in the promoter region of the high temperature requirement factor A1 (HTRA1) gene associated with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). As a secreted serine protease, HTRA1 has been reported to interact with members of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) family and regulate their signaling pathways. Growth differentiation factor 6 (GDF6), a member of the TGF-β family, is involved in ectoderm patterning and eye development. Mutations in GDF6 have been associated with abnormal eye development that may result in microphthalmia and anophthalmia. In this report, we identified a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs6982567 A/G near the GDF6 gene that is significantly associated withAMD(p value=3.54 × 10-8). We demonstrated that the GDF6 AMD risk allele (rs6982567 A) is associated with decreased expression of the GDF6 and increased expression of HTRA1. Similarly, the HTRA1 AMD risk allele (rs10490924 T) is associated with decreased GDF6 and increased HTRA1 expression. We observed decreased vascular development in the retina and significant up-regulation of GDF6 gene in the RPE layer, retinal and brain tissues in HTRA1 knock-out (htra1-/-) mice as compared with the wild-type counterparts. Furthermore, we showed enhanced SMAD signaling in htra1-/- mice. Our data suggests a critical role of HTRA1 in the regulation of angiogenesis via TGF-β signaling and identified GDF6 as a novel disease gene for AMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Riparian ecosystems are an important transition zone between river ecosystem and the terrestrial ecosystems and play an important role in the global carbon cycle of terrestrial ecosystems. The study was carried out in littoral in XiangXi river, which was the larger tributary and nearest to the Three Gorges Dam. Gas exchange rates were measured to explore the main factors controlling the carbon flux of littoral in XiangXi river using chamber method during water discharge in 2011. The results showed that in the early of water discharge, net ecosystem exchange (NEE) of 165- 175m a.s.l. was 2.17±0.53μmol m-2s-1, which was markedly lower than that of over 175m a.s.l. (-1.04±0.62μmol m- 2s-1, P<0.05). Total ecosystem respiration (TER) of 165-175m a.s.l. was 3.21±0.52μmol m-2s-1, which was little lower than that of over 175m a.s.l. (3.79±0.94μmol m-2s-1), but there was no statistically significant difference (P>0.05). The study indicated that being experienced flooding, the lower areas in littoral of the main stream of Xiangxi river might be a weak carbon source due to lower vegetation cover, higher soil water content and different soil microbial in the early of water discharge. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: On the basis of the idea of the second multiplication curve fitting, the number and scale of Chinese E-commerce site is analyzed. A preventing increase model is introduced in this paper, and the model parameters are solved by the software of Matlab. The validity of the preventing increase model is confirmed though the numerical experiment. The experimental results show that the precision of preventing increase model is ideal. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The objectives of this study were to investigate relationship of retained fetal membranes (RFM) to expression of NOS and NOS mRNA and to analyze pathohistological changes and the distribution of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in foetal placentas of cows with RFM. Twenty cows were assigned to two groups, a control group (no retained fetal membranes, NRFM, n =10) and a diseased group (RFM, n =10). The endpoint method was used to detect the nitric oxide (NO) content and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity in foetal placental tissue fluid and the fluorescent quantitation PCR was used to measure the expression of NOS mRNA. Immunohistochemistry and hematoxylin–eosin staining were used to observe pathohistological changes. Tissue from RFM cows showed fibronecrosis of the chorionic villi, and a decreased number of trophoblastic cells. The majority of trophoblastic cells displayed vacuolar degeneration. Interstitium vessels were distended and congested. Expression of induced nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) protein and iNOS mRNA was significantly higher (P <0.05) in the cytoplasm of placental villus trophoblastic cells in the RFM group. But expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) protein and eNOS mRNA was significantly lower (P <0.05) in the RFM group. The NO content and NOS activity of cows with RFM were significantly higher (P <0.05). A high expression of iNOS protein and iNOS mRNA in the cow foetal placenta could produce high content of NO, which might inhibit uterine contraction. So over expression of iNOS protein and iNOS mRNA might be an important agent of retained fetal membranes in cows, and it may be a potential diagnosis biomarker. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are environmental and tobacco carcinogens. Metabolic activation of intermediate PAH trans-dihydrodiols by aldo-keto reductases (AKRs) leads to the formation of electrophilic and redox-active o-quinones. We investigated whether O-methylation by human recombinant soluble catechol-O-methyltransferase (S-COMT) is a feasible detoxication step for a panel of structurally diverse PAH-catechols produced during the redox-cycling process. Classes of PAH non-K-region o-quinones (bay region, methylated bay region, and fjord region o-quinones) produced by AKRs were employed in the studies. PAH o-quinones were reduced to the corresponding catechols by dithiothreitol under anaerobic conditions and then further O-methylated by human S-COMT in the presence of S-[3H]adenosyl-l-methionine as a methyl group donor. The formation of the O-methylated catechols was detected by HPLC-UV coupled with in-line radiometric detection, and unlabeled products were also characterized by LC-MS/MS. Human S-COMT was able to catalyze O-methylation of all of the PAH-catechols and generated two isomeric metabolites in different proportions. LC-MS/MS showed that each isomer was a mono-O-methylated metabolite. 1H NMR was used to assign the predominant positional isomer of benzo[a]pyrene-7,8-catechol as the O-8-monomethylated catechol. The catalytic efficiency (kcat/Km) varied among different classes of PAH-catechols by 500-fold. The ability of S-COMT to produce two isomeric products from PAH-catechols was rationalized using the crystal structure of the enzyme. We provide evidence that O-8-monomethylated benzo[a]pyrene-7,8-catechol is formed in three different human lung cell lines. It is concluded that human S-COMT may play a critical role in the detoxication of PAH o-quinones generated by AKRs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Energy-saving and emission-reduction are the major challenge to the development of countries in the world. When it comes to China, it refers to properly handle the regional issues. According to the common trends of the average industrial SO2 emission per square kilometer in three developed regions (Yangtze River Delta, Pearl River Delta and Bohai Economic Circle) and the remaining regions in the east, the middle and the west, this paper conducts an empirical analysis on the issue of pollution emission spilled from the developed regions to the remaining provinces. The result shows that the pollution emission in developed regions significantly demonstrates the role-model effect to the remaining provinces, and the effect will be weaken as the distance from the remaining provinces to three developed regions increases, which somewhat interprets the common trend of pollution emission among regions. Meanwhile, the role-model effect gives us the policy recommendation that China shall pay full attention to the exemplary role played by the developed regions on the issue of energy-saving and emission-reduction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Extracellular Ca2+ is essential for the development of stable epithelial tight junctions. We find that in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation and glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β inhibition independently induce the localization of epithelial tight junction components to the plasma membrane. The Ca2+-independent deposition of junctional proteins induced by AMPK activation and GSK-3β inhibition is independent of E-cadherin. Furthermore, the nectin-afadin system is required for the deposition of tight junction components induced by AMPK activation, but it is not required for that induced by GSK-3β inhibition. Phosphorylation studies demonstrate that afadin is a substrate for AMPK. These data demonstrate that two kinases involved in regulating cell growth and metabolism act through distinct pathways to influence the deposition of the components of epithelial tight junctions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The absorptive effect of jets on the multi-waveband energy spectrum of the quasar 3C 279 is studied by using a jet model. Based on the timeindependent synchrotron self-Compton (SSC) model, it is assumed that in the jet, the radiant blob is blocked by the preceding cooled blob, thus the emission from the radiation region could be absorbed. This leads to the change of the energy spectrum. Our calculations indicate that the jet material exerts a strong absorption on the X-ray emission from the quasar radiation region, and that the absorbed energy will be re-emitted in the form of emission lines in the ultraviolet and soft X-ray wavebands. By using this model, we have reproduced the multi-waveband energy spectrum of 3C 279. Finally, we give a brief discussion on the obtained results. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Human reliability analysis (HRA) is generally viewed as quite an important part in probabilistic safety assessment (PSA). In this paper, a THERP+HCR HRA model is presented to model the operators’ post-accident behavior in Chinese nuclear power plants. The paper shows how the model is structured and how to consider and acquire the corresponding data, including HCR data modification and HRA event tree data. A case study is presented to make an illustration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The multiple transferable resistance (MTR) pump, from Neisseria gonorrhoeae, is typical of the specialized machinery used to translocate drugs across the inner and outer membranes of Gram-negative bacteria. It consists of a tripartite complex composed of an inner-membrane transporter, MtrD, a periplasmic membrane fusion protein, MtrC, and an outer-membrane channel, MtrE. We have expressed the components of the pump in Escherichia coli and used the antibiotic vancomycin, which is too large to cross the outer-membrane by passive diffusion, to test for opening of the MtrE channel. Cells expressing MtrCDE are not susceptible to vancomycin, indicating that the channel is closed; but become susceptible to vancomycin in the presence of transported substrates, consistent with drug-induced opening of the MtrE channel. A mutational analysis identified residues Asn-198, Glu-434, and Gln-441, lining an intraprotomer groove on the surface of MtrE, to be important for pump function; mutation of these residues yielded cells that were sensitive to vancomycin. Pull-down assays and micro-calorimetry measurements indicated that this functional impairment is not due to the inability of MtrC to interact with the MtrE mutants; nor was it due to the MtrE mutants adopting an open conformation, because cells expressing these MtrE mutants alone are relatively insensitive to vancomycin. However, cells expressing the MtrE mutants with MtrC are sensitive to vancomycin, indicating that residues lining the intra-protomer groove control opening of the MtrE channel in response to binding of MtrC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Visual experiments were employed to investigate heat transfer characteristics of steam on vertical titanium plates with/without surface modifications for different surface energies. Stable dropwise condensation and filmwise condensation were achieved on two surface modification titanium plates, respectively. Dropwise and rivulet filmwise co-existing condensation form of steam was observed on unmodified titanium surfaces. With increase in the surface subcooling, the ratio of area (η) covered by drops decreased and departure diameter of droplets increased, resulting in a decrease in condensation heat transfer coefficient. Condensation heat transfer coefficient decreased sharply with the values of η decreasing when the fraction of the surface area covered by drops was greater than that covered by rivulets. Otherwise, the value of η had little effect on the heat transfer performance. Based on the experimental phenomena observed, the heat flux through the surface was proposed to express as the sum of the heat flux through the dropwise region and rivulet filmwise region. The heat flux through the whole surface was the weighted mean value of the two regions mentioned above. The model presented explains the gradual change of heat transfer coefficient for transition condensation with the ratio of area covered by drops. The simulation results agreed well with the present experimental data when the subcooling temperature is lower than 10°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have previously demonstrated that histone deacetylase 7 (HDAC7) expression and splicing play an important role in smooth muscle cell (SM C) differentiation from embryonic stem (ES) cells, but the molecular mechanisms of increased HDAC7 expression during SMC differentiation are currently unknown. In this study, we found that platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) induced a 3-fold increase in the transcripts of HDAC7 in differentiating ES cells. Importantly, our data also revealed that PDGF-BB regulated HDAC7 expression not through phosphorylation of HDAC7 but through transcriptional activation. By dissecting its promoters with progressive deletion analysis, we identified the sequence between -343 and -292 bp in the 5'-flanking region of the Hdac7 gene promoter as the minimal PDGF-BB-responsive element, which contains one binding site for the transcription factor, specificity protein 1 (Sp1). Mutation of the Spi site within this PDGF-BB-re- sponsive element abolished PDGF.-BB-induced HDAC7 activity. PDGF-BB treatment enhanced Spi binding to the Hdac7 promoter in differentiated SMCs in vivo as demonstrated by the chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. Moreover, we also dem- onstrated that knockdown of Spi abrogated PDGF-BB-induced HDAC7 up-regulation and SMC differentiation gene expression in differentiating ES cells, although enforced expression of Sp1 alone was sufficient to increase the activity of the Hdac7 pro- moter and expression levels of SMC differentiation genes. Importantly, we further demonstrated that HDAC7 was required for Spl-induced SMC differentiation of gene expression. Our data suggest that Spi plays an important role in the regulation of Hdac7 gene expression in SMC differentiation from ES cells. These findings provide novel molecular insights into the regulation of HDAC7 and enhance our knowledge in SMC differentiation and vessel formation during embryonic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The as-sintered sinter skin of WC–11wt% Co–0.71wt% Cr3C2–0.06wt% La2O3 cemented carbide was observed and analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. It was unexpectedly discovered that lanthanum which was added in the form of oxide could migrate directionally from the alloy to the sinter skin during the sintering process. As a result, La2O2S and LaCoO3 phases were formed in situ on the sinter skin. It is significant that both phases are characterized with layered-structure related self-lubricating function and high melting point. Noteworthily, La2O2S grains preferentially grew up along a group of parallel faces with orientation index [001] in the WC+β matrix. It was revealed that the alloy had a diffusion-resulted dual structure (i.e., core and skin structure), i.e., WC+β+η three-phase structure in the inner part and WC+β+La2O2S+LaCoO3 four-phase structure on the sinter skin. Cr3C2 with carbon-donation ability and the impurity elements from the sintering atmosphere with much bigger electronegative parameters than lanthanum are thought to be the driving force behind the directional migration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In view of the operation rule of retail loans and the characteristics of default factors affecting default behavior, the authors put forward non-linear proportional default model with time-dependent variables based on the Cox model. This model takes into account the non-linear relationship among variables and time-dependent variables while calculating the retail loan default probability in China''s commercial banks, which will make the model to be in line with its objective reality better. The result demonstrates this model is scientific and feasible in practical application in China''s commercial banks through empirical analysis and example analysis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Experimental investigations were carried out to study heat transfer characteristics of titanium (commercially pure titanium, TA2)/water two-phase closed thermosyphon (Ti/H2O TPCT). Experiments of copper/water (Cu/H2O) TPCT with same dimension and manufacturing process had also been performed for contrast. Experimental results show that there are no remarkable differences of heat transfer coefficients in evaporator (he ) between the two kinds of TPCTs, whereas surprisingly the experimental results of heat transfer coefficient in condenser (hc ) of Ti/H2O TPCTs are about 2–3 times more than that of Cu/H2O TPCTs, moreover the Nusselt’s theoretical correlation based on laminar filmwise condensation is not suitable for simulating the hc of Ti/H2O TPCTs. Experimental results and theoretical analysis of surface free energy difference between condensate and solid surface indicate that the mixed condensation mode with dropwise and filmwise condensation coexisting on titanium surface result in the higher hc for Ti/H2O TPCTs. Experiments on condensation mechanism of titanium surface are ongoing to further validate the point. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of oxovanadium(IV) complexes: TpVO(pzH)(2,4-Cl–C6H3–OCH2COO) (1), TpVO(pzH)(C6H5–OCH2COO) (2), TpVO(pzH)(p-Cl–C6H4–COO) (3), TpVO(pzH)(3,5-NO2–C6H3–COO) (4), Tp∗VO(pzH∗)(p-Cl–C6H4–COO) (5) and Tp∗VO(pzH∗)(p-Cl–C6H4–COO)·CH3OH (6) (Tp=hydrotris(pyrazolyl)borate, pzH=pyrazole, Tp∗=hydrotris(3,5-dimethylpyrazolyl)borate, pzH∗=3,5-dimethylpyrazole) were synthesized and their crystal structures were determined by X-ray diffraction. In all the complexes, the vanadium ions are in a distorted-octahedral environment with a N4O2 donor set. Hydrogen bonding interaction exists in each complex. Complexes 1 and 2 are hydrogen-bonded dimers. Dimeric units of 2 are connected to one another via weak inter-molecular C–H···O interactions to form a 2D network on the bc-face. In 3–6 there exist intramolecular N–H···O hydrogen bonds between the neutral pyrazole/3,5-dimethylpyrazole and the uncoordinated carboxyl oxygen atom. In addition, the catalytic activity of complex 2 in a bromination reaction in phosphate buffer with phenol red as a trap was evaluated by UV–Vis spectroscopy. Furthermore, the elemental analyses, IR spectra and thermal stabilities were recorded. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A novel approach, was designed to obtain thixotropic structure of equiaxed or non-dendrtic grains for rheocasting, and demonstrated experimentally using A356 aluminum alloy. The circumstance in bulk liquid metal, which would burst into copious nucleation, and at the same time create homogeneous distribution of temperature and solute, was constructed by combined utilization of rotating magnetic fields and a cooling tube. Both the solidified microstructures in metal mold and sand mold exhibited non-dendritic characteristic. Analyses of the rheocasting A356 microstructure indicated that high density of nuclei occurred by inserting a cooling tube into rotating slurry at liquidus temperature. In the case of slow cooling rate, mushy slurry obtained with high nuclei density kept non-dendritic morphology of primary particles with holding time, accompanying grain particles’ coarsening and spheroidizing; moreover, the eutectic silicon got coarsening with retaining time. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The toxic effects of 2,2′,4,4′-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47) on the marine alga Skeletonema costatum were studied, including the population dynamics, chlorophyll fluorescence characteristics, pigment content, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) content and morphology. High doses (200–600 μg L−1) of BDE-47 significantly suppressed the population growth of S. costatum , with a 96 h EC 50 value of 293 μg L−1. Photosynthetic parameters (F v / F m , rETR max and Φ PSⅡ) of photosystem II (PSII) were significantly inhibited with increasing BDE-47 concentrations. The chlorophyll c (chl c) concentration was also inhibited by exposure to BDE-47. In contrast, chl a and carotenoid concentrations were elevated after exposure to high concentrations of BDE-47 for 72 and 96 h. The SOD activity was generally higher at concentrations of 100–600 μg L−1 than those of the control when the exposure time was less than 48 h. With increasing time, the SOD activity generally decreased, and significantly higher SOD activity only occurred in the treatment with high doses of BDE-47. High MDA contents occurred after exposure for 96 h in all BDE-47 treatments. With increasing BDE-47 concentrations, drastic deformation of the silicious valve and detachment of the strutted processes were found. In addition, drastic decreases in the BDE-47 concentration in culture medium indicated the bioaccumulation of BDE-47 by S. costatum. Our results revealed multiple responses of S. costatum to BDE-47 exposure, and indicated the potential risk of BDE-47 in the East China Sea based on these responses. • The S. costatum strain from the East China Sea showed limited tolerance to BDE-47. • Parameters of chl a fluorescence were inhibited. • Elevated chl a and carotenoids but decreased chl c concentrations were found. • Lipid peroxidation did not follow the changing patterns of SOD. • Potential risks of BDE-47 in the East China Sea should be highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We previously described the novel zinc finger protein ZKSCAN3 as a new "driver" of colon cancer progression. To investigate the underlying mechanism and because the predicted structural features (tandem zinc fingers) are often present in transcription factors, we hypothesized that ZKSCAN3 regulates the expression of a gene(s) favoring tumor progression. We employed unbiased screening to identify a DNA binding motif and candidate downstream genes. Cyclic amplification and selection of targets using a random oligonucleotide library and ZKSCAN3 protein identified KRDGGG as the DNA recognition motif. In expression profiling, 204 genes were induced 2-29-fold, and 76 genes reduced 2-5-fold by ZKSCAN3. To enrich for direct targets, we eliminated genes under-represented (<3) for the ZKSCAN3 binding motif (identified by CAST-ing) in 2 kilo- bases of regulatory sequence. Up-regulated putative downstream targets included genes contributing to growth (c-Met- related tyrosine kinase (MST1R), MEK2; the guanine nucleotide exchanger RasGRP2, insulin-like growth factor-2, integrin 134), cell migration (MST1R), angiogenesis (vascular endothelial growth factor), and proteolysis (MMP26; cathepsin D; PRSS3 (protease serine 3)). We pursued integrin β4 (induced up to 6-fold) as a candidate target because it promotes breast cancer tumorigenicity and stimulates phosphatidyl 3-kinase implicated in colorectal cancer progression. ZKSCAN3 overexpression/silencing modulated integrin 134 expression, confirming the array analysis. Moreover, ZKSCAN3 bound to the integrin β4 promoter in vitro and in vivo, and the integrin 134-derived ZKSCAN3 motif fused upstream of a tk-Luc reporter conferred ZKSCAN3 sensitivity. Integrin 134 knockdown by short hairpin RNA countered ZKSCAN3-augmented anchorage-independent colony formation. We also demonstrate vascular endothelial growth factor as a direct ZKSCAN3 target. Thus, ZKSCAN3 regulates the expression of several genes favoring tumor progression including integrin β4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Reproductive ducts of male and female soft-shelled turtles, Trionyx sinensis were examined throughout the year (March, May, September, December) using brightfield and electron microscopes (TEM and SEM), to determine the location and histomorphological characteristics of sperm storage structures as well as their changes at different phases of the seasonal reproductive cycle. Sperm stored in the epididymis were also examined. In the male, spermatogenesis is initiated in spring (May), and then the mature sperm are released in autumn as an episodic event. Spermatogenesis is inactive in winter. However, in this species, the epididymis contains sperm throughout the entire year. Sperm observed in the epididymis are intact and some structures are uniquely different from other reptiles, and is characterized by 35–40 concentric mitochondria with a dense core in the centre. Many glycogen granules are observed in the cytoplasm of the midpiece. However, the epithelial cell type of epididymal duct change in different seasons. The cells are fully developed with a highly secretory activity in September. The materials secreted from the epithelium might have the function as nourishment for the stored sperm. Sperm storage structures in the form of tubules are observed in the wall of the isthmus of the oviduct in hibernating females but are absent in the groups of May and September. These tubules develop either by folding or fusion of the oviductal mucosal folds and are lined by both ciliated and secretory cells. These tubules might provide a microenvironment for the sperm to enable its long-term storage. After being separated 4 months (December–March) from the male, sperm are observed in the tubules of the isthmus of the oviduct. The unique character of the sperm combined with the special sperm storage structures enable the sperm to maintain fertility and activity during their storage. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Hypoxic ischemic (HI) injury in neonates damages brain tissues. We examined the mechanism of hyperbaric oxygen preconditioning (HBO-PC) in neonatal HI rat model. Seven-day-old rat pups were subjected to left common carotid artery ligation and hypoxia (8% oxygen at 37 °C) for 90 min. HBO (100% O2, 2.5 atmospheres absolute for 2.5 h) were administered by placing pups in a chamber 24 h before HI insult. Brain injury was assessed by the survival rate, 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC), Nissl, TUNEL straining and caspase-3,caspase-9 activities after HI. In HBO preconditioned animals, survival rate was increased, infarct ratio was decreased, and the positive stained TUNEL cells were reduced, accompanied by the suppression of caspase-3 and -9 activities. These results indicate that a single HBO-PC appears to provide brain protection against HI insult via inhibition of neuronal apoptosis pathways. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Many cancer cells display down-regulated major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I antigen (MHC-I), which seems to enable them to evade immune surveillance, whereas the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Here, we demonstrate that ligand (CXCL12) stimulation of CXCR4, a major chemokine receptor expressed in many malignant cancer cells, induced MHC-I heavy chain down-regulation from the cell surface of the human epithelioid carcinoma HeLa cells, the human U251 and U87 glioblastoma cells, the human MDA-MD 231 breast cancer cells, and the human SK-N-BE (2) neuroblastoma cells. Activation of CXCR4 also induced MHC-I down-regulation in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The internalized MHC-I heavy chain molecules were partially co-localized with Rab7, a later endosomal marker, Activation of CXCR4 induced ubiquitination of MHC-I heavy chain, and mutation of the C-terminal two lysine residues (Lys-332, Lys-337) on one of the MHC-I alleles, HLA.B7, blocked CXCR4-evoked ubiquitination and down-regulation of HLA.B7. Moreover, purified GST-conjugated CXCR4 C terminus directly associated with the purified His-tagged β2-microglobulin (β2M), and MHC-I heavy chain was co-immunoprecipitated with CXCR4 in a β2M-dependent manner. This interaction appears to be critical for CXCR4-evoked down-regulation of MHC-I heavy chain as evidenced by the data that MHC-I heavy chain down-regulation was inhibited by either truncation of the CXCR4 C terminus or knockdown of β2M. All together, these findings shed new light on the role of CXCR4 in tumor evasion of immune surveillance via inducing MHC-I down-regulation from the cell surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drosophila arginine methyl- transferase 4 (DART4) belongs to the type I class of arginine methyltransferases. It catalyzes the methylation of arginine residues to monomethylarginines and asymmetrical dimethylarginines. The DART4 sequence is highly similar to mammalian PRMT4/CARM1, and DART4 substrate specificity has been conserved, too. Recently it was suggested that DART4/Carmer functions in ecdysone receptor mediated apoptosis of the polytene larval salivary glands and an apparent up-regulation of DART4/ Carmer mRNA levels before tissue histolysis was reported. Here we show that in Drosophila larvae, DART4 is mainly expressed in the imaginal disks and in larval brains, and to a much lesser degree in the polytene larval tissue such as salivary glands. In glands, DART4 protein is present in the cytoplasm and the nucleus. The nuclear signal emanates from the extrachromosomal domain and gets progressively restricted to the region of the nuclear lamina upon pupariation. Surprisingly, DART4 levels do not increase in salivary glands during pupariation, and overexpression of DART4 does not cause precautious cell death in the glands. Furthermore, over- and misexpression of DART4 under the control of the α tubulin promoter do not lead to any major problem in the life of a fly. This suggests that DART4 activity is regulated at the posttranslational level and/or that it acts as a true cofactor in vivo. We present evidence that nuclear localization of DART4 may contribute to its function because DART4 accumulation changes from a distribution with a strong cytoplasmic component during the transcriptional quiescence of the young embryo to a predominantly nuclear one at the onset of zygotic transcription. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) function is regulated in the extracellular space by many modulator proteins, including those containing a von Willebrand factor type C (VWC) domain. The function of the VWC domain-containing proteins in development and diseases has been extensively studied. The structural basis, however, for the mechanism by which BMP is regulated by these proteins is still poorly understood. By analyzing chordin, CHL2 (chordin-like 2), and CV2 (crossveinless 2) as well as their individual VWC domains, we show that the VWC domain is a versatile binding module that in its multiple forms and environments can expose a variety of binding specificities. Three of four, two of three, and one of five VWCs from chordin, CHL2, and CV2, respectively, can bind BMPs. Using an array of BMP-2 mutant proteins, it can be demonstrated that the binding-competent VWC domains all use a specific subset of BMP-2 binding determinants that overlap with the binding site for the type II receptors (knuckle epitope) or for the type I receptors (wrist epitope). This explains the competition between modulator proteins and receptors for BMP binding and therefore the inhibition of BMP signaling. A subset of VWC domains from CHL2 binds to the Tsg (twisted gastrulation) protein similar to chordin. A stable ternary complex consisting of BMP-2, CHL2, and Tsg can be formed, thus making CHL2 a more efficient BMP-2 inhibitor. The VWCs of CV2, however, do not interact with Tsg. The present results show that chordin, CHL2, and CV2 regulate BMP-2 signaling by different recognition mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulin-resistant apoB/BATless mice have hypertriglyceridemia because of increased assembly and secretion of very low density apolipoprotein B (apoB) and triglycerides compared with mice expressing only apoB (Siri, P., Candela, N., Ko, C., Zhang, Y., Eusufzai, S., Ginsberg, H. N., and Huang, L. S. (2001) I. Biol. Chem. 276, 46064-46072). Despite increased very low density lipoprotein secretion, apoB/BATless mice have fatty livers. We found that hepatic mRNA levels of key lipogenic enzymes, acetyl-CoA carboxylase, fatty-acid synthase, and stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 were increased in apoB/BATless mice compared with levels in apoB mice, suggesting increased lipogenesis in apoB/BATless mice. This was confirmed by determining incorporation of tritiated water into fatty acids. Neither the hepatic mRNA of the lipogenic transcription factor, SREBP-1c (sterol-response element-binding protein 1c), nor the nuclear levels of the mature form of SREBP-1 protein were elevated in apoB/BATless mice. By contrast, hepatic levels of peroxisomal proliferator-activated receptor 2 (PPARγ2) mRNA and protein were specifically increased in apoB/BATless mice, as were hepatic mRNA levels of two targets of PPARy, CD36 and aP2. Treatment of apoB/BATless mice for 4 weeks with intraperitoneal injections of a PPARγ antisense oligonucleotide resulted in dramatic reductions of both PPARγ1 and PPARγ2 mRNA, PPARγ2 protein, and mRNA levels of fatty-acid synthase and acetyl-CoA carboxylase. These changes were associated with decreased hepatic de novo lipogenesis and hepatic triglyceride concentrations. We conclude that hepatic steatosis in apoB/BATless mice is associated with elevated rates of hepatic lipogenesis that are linked directly to increased hepatic expression of PPARγ2. The mechanism whereby hepatic Pparγ2 gene expression is increased and how PPARγ2 stimulates lipogenesis is under investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

B Introduction: b Laparoscopic liver resection or ablation for lesions located in the segment 7 is very difficult, due to the limited visibility of the operative field. B Method: b From February 2015 to February 2019, 12 patients with liver lesions in segment VII underwent Laparoscopic hepatectomy or radiofrequency ablation. [Extracted from the article]

PCR amplification of proviral DNA extracted from peripheral blood lymphocytes of three Chinese pigs (Banna minipig inbreed (BMI), Wu-Zhi-Shan pig (WZSP) and Neijiang pig (NJP)), using primers corresponding to highly conserved regions of reverse transcriptase (RT) of pol gene and nucleocapsid sequence of gag gene. PCR products were then extracted and cloned into pGEM-T vector. Phylogenetic analysis of the nucleotide sequences of PERV-BMI, PERV-WZSP and PERV-WZSP revealed that they were of retroviral origin. Phylogenetic trees were constructed from the translated amino acids of PERVs and other type C retrovirus, as well as lentivirus of GenBank. The research demonstrated that PERVs of Chinese pigs and other PERVs were closely related to other pathogenic type C retroviruses. From the gag analysis, a novel subgroup of PERV was identified and this novel sequence described in this report would allow such investigation to be actively pursued. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The in vivo effects of increased delivery of fatty acids (FA) to the liver are poorly defined. Therefore, we compared the effects of infusing either 6 mM oleic acid (OA) bound to albumin, 0.5–20% Intralipid, or saline for 3 or 6 h into male C57BL/6J mice. Infusions were followed by studies of triglyceride (TG) and apoB secretion. Although plasma FA levels increased similarly after either 20% Intralipid or 6 mM OA, TG secretion increased only after infusion of 4–20% Intralipid; TG secretion was unchanged by 6 mM OA. By contrast, 6-h infusions of either 6 mM OA or 4–20% Intralipid increased apoB secretion. 6 mM OA and 20% Intralipid each increased secretion of apoB from primary hepatocytes ex vivo. Importantly, 0.5–2% Intralipid, which delivered more FA to the liver than 6 mM OA, did not stimulate apoB secretion. Hepatic apoB mRNA levels were unaffected by either 6 ms OA or 20% Intralipid, but microsomal triglyceride transfer protein mRNA was significantly lower after 6-h infusions with 6 mM OA versus either saline or 20% Intralipid. Lower microsomal triglyceride transfer protein mRNA levels were associated with reduced hepatic TG mass after 6-h infusions of 6 mM OA. We conclude that 1) increased FA delivery to the liver in vivo increases secretion of apoB-lipoproteins via post-transcriptional mechanisms, 2) OA-induced apoB-lipoprotein secretion occurred at least in part via mechanisms other than by providing substrate for TG synthesis, and 3) the route of delivery of FA is important for its effects on apoB secretion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adhesion of soil to solid surface is a complicated interfacial reaction that relates to many factors. Quantitative descriptions of the forming procedures and the conditions of the adhesion interface forming can provide a guidance to the design of the soil-engaging component surfaces with a good anti-adhesion performance. Using a self-developed soil adhesion measurement device, the mean area and mean thickness of the adhesion interface water film and the interfacial adhesion force varied with soil water content and vertical loads are measured. According to the gray system theory, the differential equations of the mean area and the mean thickness of water film and the adhesion force of the interface are developed. The consequences between or among the factors related to the adhesion interface forming process are analyzed quantitatively with the gray correlation analyzing theory. The forming procedure of the adhesion interface and the influence on the mechanic behaviour of soil adhering on a solid surface are demonstrated by the experiments. The analysis will be beneficial to designing of soil-engaging component surfaces of terrain-machines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ligand-gated ion channels are integral membrane proteins that mediate fast synaptic transmission. Molecular biological techniques have been extensively used for determining the structure-function relationships of ligand-gated ion channels. However, the transduction mechanisms that link agonist binding to channel gating remain poorly understood. Arginine 222 (Arg-222), located at the distal end of the extracellular N-terminal domain immediately preceding the first transmembrane domain (TM1), is conserved in all 5-HT[sub 3A] receptors and α7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptors that have been cloned. To elucidate the possible role of Arg-222 in the function of 5-HT[sub 3A] receptors, we mutated the arginine residue to alanine (Ala) and expressed both the wild-type and the mutant receptor in human embryonic kidney 293 cells. Functional studies of expressed wild-type and mutant receptors revealed that the R222A mutation increased the apparent potency of the full agonist, serotonin (5-HT), and the partial agonist, 2-Me-5-HT, 5- and 12-fold, respectively. In addition, the mutation increased the efficacy of 2-Me-5-HT and converted it from a partial agonist to a full agonist. Furthermore, this mutation also converted the 5-HT[sub 3] receptor antagonist/ very weak partial agonist, apomorphine, to a potent agonist. Kinetic analysis revealed that the R222A mutation increased the rate of receptor activation and desensitization but did not affect rate of deactivation. The results suggest that the pre-TM1 amino acid residue Arg-222 may be involved in the transduction mechanism linking agonist binding to channel gating in 5-HT[sub 3A] receptors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interactions between the complement degradation product C3bi and leukocyte integrin α[sub M]β[sub 2] are critical to phagocytosis of opsonized particles in host defense against foreign pathogens and certain malignant cells. Previous studies have mapped critical residues for C3bi binding to the I-domains of the α[sub M] and the β[sub 2] subunits. However, the role of the α[sub M] β-propeller in ligand binding remains less well defined, and the functional residues are still unknown. In the present study, we studied the function of the α[sub M] β-propeller in specific ligand recognition by α[sub M]β[sub 2] using a number of different approaches, and we report four major findings. 1) Substitution of five individual segments (Asp[sup 398]-Ala[sup 402], Leu[sup 412]Leu[sup 419], Tyr[sup 426]-Met[sup 434], Phe[sup 435]-Glu[sup 443], and Ser[sup 444]-Thr[sup 451]) within the W4 blade of the β-propeller with their homologous counterparts in integrin α[sub 2] abrogated C3bi binding, whereas substitution of eight other segments outside this blade had no effect. 2) These five mutants defective in C3bi binding supported strong α[sub M]β[sub 2]-mediated and cation-dependent cell adhesion to fibrinogen, suggesting that the conformations of these five defective mutants were intact. 3) Polyclonal antibodies recognizing sequences within the W4 blade significantly blocked C3bi binding by wild-type α[sub M]β[sub 2]. 4) A synthetic peptide corresponding to Gln[sup 424]-Gly[sup 440] within W4 interacted directly with C3bi. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that the W4 blade (residues Asp[sup 398] to Thr[sup 451]) is involved specifically in C3bi but not fibrinogen binding to α[sub M]β[sub 2]. Altogether, our study supports a model in which three separate domains of α[sub M]β[sub 2] (the α[sub M]I-domain, the α[sub M] β-propellet, and the β[sub 2]I-domain) function together and contribute to the formation of the C3bi-binding site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies the effect of antioxidant (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate on hepatic stellate cells (HSC). Inhibition of HSC proliferation; Expression pattern of platelet-derived growth factor-beta receptor in the cell; Inhibition of the nuclear factor-kappa beta activity.

Investigates the role of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) activity on osmolyte accumulation and adaptation of renal medullary interstitial cells to hypertonic cells. Cell culture and in vitro experiments on organic accumulation; Dependence of organic osmolytes on COX2; Survival of medullary interstitial cell under hypertonic stress.

Pig to human xenotransplantation is one of the possible ways to solve the problem of organ shortage, but the potential risk of xenozoonoses hinders the progress of xenotransplantation. Among pathogens that might cause xenozoonoses, porcine endogenous retrovirus (PERV) is undoubtedly the most noticeable. Current researches show that PERV exists in pigs' genomes and is able to express in multiple tissues and organs in pigs. Other experiments also show that PERV could successfully infect several human cell lines in vitro and could infect SCID mice through pig to mouse islet transplantation. The discussion and research on the risk of PERV is one of the hottest topics in current xenotransplantation, but the question of whether PERV will transmit to human through xenotransplantation has not been answered due to the lack of suitable animal models. More work should be done to evaluate the risk of xenozoonoses caused by PERV after pig to human xenotransplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study that described signal transduction through which calcium regulates the trancriptional activity of myocyte enhancer factor-2 (MEF2). Background on MEF2 family; How MEF2 controls diverse and mutually exclusive cellular decisions. Other signaling pathways which regulate MEF2.